International Coffee Day

Every October 1st, we celebrate International Coffee Day, the perfect occasion to honor one of the most beloved and consumed beverages in the world. Whether it’s a quick espresso to start the day, an afternoon café con leche, or a specialty brew shared with friends, coffee is an integral part of daily life for millions.

But do you know why we celebrate it? What makes coffee so special, and what is the story behind Venezuelan coffee, one of the finest in Latin America? Here is the scoop!

ORIGIN OF INTERNATIONAL COFFEE DAY

International Coffee Day was officially established on October 1, 2015, by the International Coffee Organization (ICO) during the Milan Expo. Another theory suggests the holiday was born 32 years earlier in Japan and spread globally from there.

Choosing the first day of October marks the beginning of the coffee harvest season in many producing countries. The goal is to support the international coffee community, highlighting coffee not just as a drink, but as a vital economic and cultural engine. It also aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by farmers and promote fair, sustainable trade practices.

COFFEE CULTURE IN THE USA

In the United States, coffee is a fundamental part of the daily routine. Americans consume over 400 million cups of coffee per day, making the U.S. one of the largest consumers in the world.

A Patriotic Act: Coffee arrived in New Amsterdam (now New York) in 1668. During the American Revolution, drinking coffee became a patriotic duty, as tea was associated with the British Empire.
The Fuel of History: During the Civil War in 1861, coffee was considered “the fuel of the war,” providing soldiers with the energy and morale needed to endure.
Modern Specialty: Today, the culture has evolved into a gourmet experience. Consumers now seek “Specialty Coffee,” focusing on the origin of the bean, roast levels, and personalized brewing methods.

VENEZUELAN COFFEE: A TREASURE TO DISCOVER

Within the vast world of coffee, Venezuelan coffee occupies a privileged place. Known for its smoothness and complex flavors, Venezuela has a rich coffee tradition dating back to the 18th century in regions like Mérida, Trujillo, and Táchira.

During the 19th century, Venezuela was one of the world’s leading producers. What makes it unique is the Arabica bean, grown at altitudes between 600 and 1,500 meters. It offers a perfect balance of acidity, body, and aroma. In Venezuela, we enjoy it in many ways:

Guayoyo: A light, filtered black coffee.
Marrón: Coffee with a generous splash of milk.

CELEBRATE COFFEE AT PANNA

If you are in Miami or Orlando, we invite you to celebrate International Coffee Day at PANNA New Food Latino.

We offer a selection of coffees made with the finest beans—from an intense espresso to a smooth, creamy café con leche. Why do we do it? Because we know there is no better way to enjoy our delicious arepas, empanadas, and tequeños than with a rich coffee that transports you back home.